Electronic lock box with transponder based communications
US8451088B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 12, 2007 |
| Grant date | May 28, 2013 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 4, 2031 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE05B2047/0094
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
An electronic lock box contains a secure compartment for storing dwelling keys to a structure, and is typically mounted outside the dwelling structure. When properly instructed, usually with a coded message, the dwelling key can be accessed by opening the door to the secure compartment; such message can be manually entered on a keypad, or a programmed electronic key device can make the process more automatic. A lock box system uses a transponder at a dwelling base station (typically within the dwelling structure) to relay lock box status or access event information over a short range radio from the lock box to a remote central computer by using a more traditional communication system that is available within the dwelling. Additional sensors can be used to monitor the status of vandalism attempts. Furthermore, the lock box/transponder communications may be programmed so as to allow detection if the lock box is stolen.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.